Recession

Gum recession is the term used to describe the downward movement of the gums away from the neck of the tooth. There are many potential factors which can contribute to gum recession,

Including:

• The position of your teeth
• Previous orthodontic therapy
• Over-zealous toothbrushing
• Gum disease
• The presence of tongue/lip piercings

Dr Shah will assess the potential causes of your gum recession and advise yours accordingly on how to proceed. It is imperative that the cause of recession is addressed and controlled to prevent its progression and to allow any treatment to be successful.

The treatment approach to managing recession depends on the individual circumstances and what our intended aims are.

Wherever possible Dr Shah will aim for:

• Complete coverage of the exposed root surface.
• Minimal formation of scar tissue.
• Optimal colour and blending of the gum tissues.
• A situation where it is easy for you to clean your teeth and gums following surgery.

Surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic. Intravenous sedation can be arranged upon request. Most techniques require the use of a gum graft, which is harvested from your palate. This is carefully harvested using microsurgical techniques. The palate is carefully sutured, and a dressing is often placed. The harvested gum tissue is then carefully secured with stitches.

To improve outcomes, it is common to utilise biologic agents such as enamel matrix protein derivatives during surgery. There use can reduce complications, improve healing and increase the probability of achieving complete coverage of the exposed root surfaces.

Benefits of treating recession include:

• An improved ability to clean teeth which have suffered from the recession.
• Reduced sensitivity.
• Reduced probability of decay affecting the root surface.
• Increased thickness of the gum tissues and a reduced risk of further recession which can compromise teeth or lead to tooth loss.
• A possibility of root coverage and an improved appearance when smiling.

Risks include:

• Post-operative pain which can be managed with paracetamol/ibuprofen, typically for 7 days.
• Post-operative bleeding for the first 24-48 hours.
• Swelling and bruising.
• Post-operative infections and failure of the surgery.